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Dear boys, 

I think we all have a spaghetti tangle of feelings about this fall, tender and raw and a tiny bit excited.

Back to school reminds me that it is not easy to be curious and afraid at the same time. A full life includes transitions, and we don't have to accelerate through the hard parts. Waking up early and being forced to sit still might be balanced by time with friends and travel ball and interesting assignments.

Hank, I can see the adventure that smiles from the threshold of your third grade classroom. May you feel peace as powerfully as progress this year.

Tuck, as you enter your freshman era, I know you'll discover ways to connect, to participate, to contribute. I hope you are always known for your kindness over any academic accomplishment.

Tolliver, it feels good to know that I can always trust you to walk the path of trying. Or to run ;) 

Please remember that I love you can also sound like Did you do your homework?

You three know I am a vigorous clapper of hands, and I'll be doing that for you (figuratively, not literally, mostly) like you’ve landed on the moon, all year long. Hand to my heart, guys, you are each my favorite.

Here's to the kind of school year we're all hoping for! 

Mom